Carlos Sainz and Lando Norris share a strong friendship outside of the Circus. After being teammates at McLaren in 2019 and 2020, the two have remained very close, supporting each other in difficult times. Carlos Sainz did this for Norris during the first races of the season, when the Briton was targeted by the media for the numerous mistakes he made on the track.
The world championship battle with Oscar Piastri highlighted the highs and lows of the Englishman, who faced a very difficult period from a psychological point of view. It was precisely on this aspect that Sainz defended his colleague and friend, considering him one of the most genuine drivers on the grid:
‘He opens up to the media and people more than any other driver on the grid, and people use that against him,’ he told BBC Radio 5 Live. "What you see on TV is what he's like as a human being. He's very good at showing himself. Sometimes I find it a bit ironic and a bit frustrating. He's probably the only one who is 100% sincere in his feelings and his way of thinking, but then people turn against him," he added.
Norris or Piastri? Sainz has no doubts
The first part of the season ended with Norris in much better shape, managing to close the gap to Piastri to just nine points. The second half promises to be a battle, with Sainz admitting that #4 has what it takes to win the championship:
‘If I base my decision on speed and talent, I am 100% sure that he has everything it takes to win a world championship. But F1 also requires a bit of luck, mental resilience, and knowing how to feel comfortable with a car at the right moments,’ he emphasised
‘It doesn't matter if he doesn't win this year, he'll have another chance. He has 10-15 years in F1. He has potential, talent and speed. If he succeeds this year, fantastic, I'll be happy for him. Otherwise, he may have his chance later on,’ he concluded.
Who knows if Carlos Sainz's analysis is correct and if Lando Norris will indeed be the new World Champion in the 2025 season.
Read in the original version (italian): https://www.formula1.it/news/26361/1/sainz-difende-norris-e-uno-dei-piu-veri-in-griglia
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